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Mathieu Debuchy has agreed a five-and-a-half-year contract with Newcastle

Newcastle have completed the signing of France international right-back Mathieu Debuchy from Lille.

Last Updated: 04/01/13 2:43pm

Mathieu Debuchy: France international has joined Newcastle from Lille

The 27-year-old, who has been capped 12 times, has signed a five-and-a-half-year contract, after spending the first 10 years of his senior career with Les Dogues.

Debuchy will re-join his close friend Yohan Cabaye at St James' Park, with the duo having helped Lille to a league and cup double in 2011.

The Magpies are believed to have paid in the region of £5m for Debuchy, who will wear the number 26 shirt but will not be in the squad for Saturday's FA Cup tie at Brighton.

"It is great to become a Newcastle United player," said Debuchy. "After many great years at Lille I felt I was ready for a new challenge and cannot wait to play for such a big club, in the best league in the world.

"I hope I can bring something fresh to the team and help us get up to the highest possible placing in the Premier League this season. I will give everything for this club."